Cusco || Excursion to Palcoyo Mountain + Stone Forest

Cusco || Excursion to Palcoyo Mountain + Stone Forest offers an accessible and visually stunning alternative to the popular Rainbow Mountain. For just $45 per person, you’ll spend a full day exploring two of the region’s most captivating natural sights, with a professional guide leading the way. The tour typically lasts around 12 hours, starting early in the morning and returning near sunset. It’s perfect for those who want a manageable hike with plenty of time for photos, plus a chance to walk through a fascinating Stone Forest.

What we particularly like about this experience is how it combines vivid geological formations with breathtaking mountain views—all at a slightly easier pace than the more famous Rainbow Mountain trek. The first thing that caught our eye is the three sharply colored peaks of Palcoyo, which offer impressive photo opportunities at three different viewpoints. Second, the visit to the Stone Forest at the summit adds an extra layer of adventure, with surreal rock formations that are worth exploring.

A possible consideration is the early start—picking up guests between 4:00 and 5:00 a.m., which might be a challenge if you’re not a morning person. Also, the hike to Palcoyo is about an hour at a moderate pace, so it’s manageable but still requires some physical effort. This tour suits travelers who want spectacular scenery without the strenuous challenge of Rainbow Mountain, and those looking for a combination of natural beauty and cultural charm.

This experience is ideal for nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and travelers seeking an authentic and less crowded alternative to Rainbow Mountain. If you’re after a relaxed yet visually stunning day in the Andes, this trip is well worth considering.

Key Points

• Accessible Hike: The circuit to Palcoyo is easier than Rainbow Mountain, making it suitable for most fitness levels.
• Stunning Views: Three colorful peaks provide multiple viewpoints for impressive photos.
• Unique Attraction: The Stone Forest at the top offers surreal rock formations and panoramic mountain views.
• Value for Money: For $45, you get transportation, guides, breakfast, lunch, and equipment—good value for a full-day tour.
• Early Start: Be prepared for a pre-dawn pickup, which means adjusting your sleep schedule.
• Authentic Experience: Small group sizes and guided exploration ensure personalized attention and safe navigation.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Complete Guide to the Palcoyo and Stone Forest Tour

The Start of the Day: Early Morning Pickup and Travel

We found the early morning pickup—generally between 4:00 and 5:00 a.m.—to be a common feature of high-altitude excursions in Cusco. While it might sound a little brutal, this timing allows you to beat the crowds and make the most of daylight hours. You’ll be transported in a comfortable tourist vehicle from your hotel within Cusco’s historic center, heading south toward Cusipata, where breakfast awaits. This early start is a plus for those who want to maximize sightseeing and avoid the midday heat or crowds.

Once you’ve fueled up with breakfast, your journey continues toward the trailhead. The scenic drive takes you across the Andean landscape, setting the stage for what’s to come. The region’s high-altitude environment offers stunning vistas of valleys and mountains, giving you a preview of the dramatic scenery ahead.

The Hike: Manageable and Rewarding

The main hike to Palcoyo peaks lasts about an hour at a moderate pace, with some breaks. Compared to Rainbow Mountain’s more strenuous ascent, Palcoyo’s route is more forgiving, making it suitable for a wider range of visitors, including those who prefer a less intense trek. The terrain is well-maintained, but you should still wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for some elevation—Palcoyo sits at 4,100 meters.

What we love here is how the three peaks—each with its own characteristic color—offer multiple viewpoints. These peaks are less crowded than Rainbow Mountain, giving you the chance to snap multiple photos without the throngs of travelers. The vibrant mineral deposits create striking reds, greens, and yellows that make for memorable images. The guides are helpful in pointing out the different features and making sure everyone stays safe.

The Stone Forest: A Surreal Natural Wonder

After reaching the summit area, you’ll have ample time to explore the Stone Forest—a surreal area filled with rock formations that resemble trees or other shapes, standing tall against the backdrop of snow-capped peaks. This part of the tour is often highlighted as a highlight by travelers, with one reviewer noting they had a “relaxed experience at Palcoyo and the stone forest.”

Walking among these formations, you get an up-close view of the region’s geological history. The stone forest offers excellent photo ops, especially as the afternoon light hits the rocks and mountains. The guided tour here adds context to what you’re seeing, making it more than just a walk among rocks.

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Lunch and Return Journey: Rest and Reflection

Following the explorations, it’s time for a well-earned lunch in Cusipata—a charming village known for its hearty Peruvian fare. After lunch, your vehicle will take you back toward Cusco, with an estimated return around 6:00 p.m. The return trip offers a chance to relax and reflect on the day’s highlights, surrounded by the stunning landscape.

What’s Included and What to Budget For

The tour’s price of $45 per person covers most essentials: hotel pickup near the historic center, transportation, a professional guide, breakfast, lunch, handmade walking sticks, and a first aid kit. It’s a well-rounded package that emphasizes comfort and safety.

However, keep in mind that entrance to Rainbow Mountain Palcoyo costs an additional $5 or 15 soles, payable on site. Food beyond what’s provided (snacks, drinks, or souvenirs) is extra. Travelers have noted that the tour offers good value, especially considering the guides’ expertise and the included meals.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Bring comfortable shoes suitable for walking at altitude.
• Pack a camera to capture the vivid colors and panoramic views.
• Remember sunscreen, as high-altitude sun exposure can be strong—biodegradable sunscreen is recommended.
• Carry cash for souvenirs or extra snacks.
• Make sure your contact number is correct, with country code, and have WhatsApp enabled for easy contact.
• Be aware that pregnant women, those with heart conditions, wheelchair users, and babies under 1 year are not suited for this tour.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is ideal if you enjoy breathtaking landscapes but prefer a less demanding hike than Rainbow Mountain. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see vibrant mountain colors, explore rock formations, and enjoy a relaxed pace. Those seeking a day trip with solid logistics, guided insights, and good food will find this tour a worthwhile addition to their Cusco itinerary.

Final Thoughts

The Cusco excursion to Palcoyo Mountain and the Stone Forest offers a beautiful, accessible alternative to the more crowded Rainbow Mountain. With fewer crowds, manageable hikes, and surreal scenery, it’s a good choice for travelers who want a day full of stunning views without overexerting themselves. The inclusion of breakfast, lunch, and guide services adds comfort and value, making it a well-rounded experience.

While the early start might not be for everyone, it’s a small price to pay for the incredible photo opportunities and the chance to enjoy a peaceful moment among some of the most striking geological formations in the Andes. We think this tour strikes a good balance between adventure, comfort, and authentic natural beauty—perfect for those who want to see the Andes in a relaxed, authentic way.

FAQ

What is the starting time for this tour?
Check the availability, but pickup generally occurs between 4:00 and 5:00 a.m., allowing you to maximize daylight and beat the crowds.

How long does the hike to Palcoyo take?
The hike lasts about 1 hour at a moderate pace, with breaks included. It’s doable for most fitness levels, especially since it’s less steep than Rainbow Mountain.

Are there any additional costs?
Yes, the entrance fee to Rainbow Mountain Palcoyo is $5 or 15 soles, payable on-site. Food beyond the breakfast and lunch provided is extra.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, biodegradable sunscreen, and cash for extras. Don’t forget your contact info and WhatsApp in case of last-minute updates.

Is this tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
It’s not recommended for pregnant women, and those with heart problems, wheelchair users, or babies under 1 year might find it challenging.

How long is the overall tour?
The entire day lasts around 12 hours, including travel, meals, and exploration.

What is included in the price?
Pickup from your hotel, transportation, a professional guide, breakfast, lunch, handmade walking sticks, and a first aid kit.

Who is the tour provider?
Viaja con Amaru Explorer, a reputable company offering guided excursions with positive reviews from travelers.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your schedule shifts.

This tour stands out for its vivid scenery, relaxed pace, and overall good value. It’s perfect for travelers who want to experience the Andes’ colorful side without the strenuous effort or crowded scenes often associated with Rainbow Mountain. Whether you’re a photography buff or simply want a memorable day amid stunning geological formations, this trip delivers on both.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby